This Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food. Layered with tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold evening. The creamy mushroom sauce adds depth to the flavors, making every bite irresistible.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make! With minimal prep time and a simple layering technique, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in just over an hour. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a small dinner gathering, this casserole will be a hit every time.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
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1 onion, chopped
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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1/2 cup milk
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon butter, melted
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Layer the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish with half of the sliced potatoes.
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Spread half of the cooked ground beef mixture over the potatoes.
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Pour half of the soup mixture over the beef, then repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, beef, and soup mixture.
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Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
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Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Sprinkle with dried thyme and drizzle melted butter on top before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: A Hearty and Comforting Dish
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a timeless comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This hearty dish is not only filling but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to make it your own by adjusting ingredients to fit your tastes or dietary preferences. It’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. The combination of tender ground beef, layers of potatoes, and a rich cheese sauce creates a hearty casserole that is perfect for serving to a crowd.
The Origins of Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is a dish that has its roots in traditional comfort food. Casseroles, in general, have a long history, dating back to the early 20th century, when they became a staple in many American households. These dishes were easy to prepare, inexpensive, and could feed a large family with minimal effort. Ground beef, a cheap and versatile ingredient, was often used as the main protein in these casseroles, paired with hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. Over the years, variations of this dish have appeared across different cultures, each adding their own unique twist to the basic concept.
In this modern recipe, the classic combination of ground beef and potatoes is elevated with a creamy cheese sauce and flavorful spices, making it a more exciting and satisfying meal. While the original recipes relied on simple ingredients, this updated version incorporates a touch of nutmeg, chili powder, and red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor. The result is a dish that balances the richness of the cheese with the savory beef and the comforting potatoes.
Why Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the Perfect Comfort Food
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the quintessential comfort food. When you think of comfort food, images of warm, hearty meals that fill you up and make you feel at home come to mind. This casserole fits the bill perfectly. The layers of thinly sliced potatoes and savory ground beef are not only delicious but also incredibly filling. The cheese sauce, which is rich and creamy, adds a luxurious texture that ties all the components together. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for a potluck, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.
One of the reasons why this dish is so beloved is because it’s easy to make. While some casseroles require lengthy preparations or hard-to-find ingredients, Ground Beef and Potato Casserole uses simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. From start to finish, the casserole can be prepared in less than an hour and a half, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
Additionally, casseroles are known for being convenient and adaptable. You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have available. If you’re not a fan of cheddar cheese, you can swap it out for another variety, such as mozzarella or gouda. You can also experiment with adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase the dish’s nutritional value and add more flavor.
How to Customize Ground Beef and Potato Casserole to Fit Your Taste
One of the best things about Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is its versatility. While the traditional version calls for ground beef, potatoes, and a cheese sauce, you can make several tweaks to suit your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas for customizing this dish:
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Ground Beef Substitutes: If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a more unique twist, ground lamb or venison would also work well in this casserole.
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Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply use a combination of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, and beans. This will provide a similar texture and flavor profile without the meat.
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Spices and Seasonings: The flavor of the casserole can be adjusted by changing the spices used. For a more Italian-inspired version, try adding some oregano, basil, and garlic powder. If you prefer a more southwestern flavor, add cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
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Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for this casserole, you can experiment with different types of cheese to create unique flavors. Try using a combination of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, or go for a more robust flavor with blue cheese or Gruyere.
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole for Special Occasions
Although Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is often considered a weeknight dinner, it can also be dressed up for special occasions. The casserole is easy to prepare in advance, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, family reunions, or any event where you need to feed a crowd. You can even prepare the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
For a more festive presentation, consider garnishing the casserole with fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or chives. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of freshness that balances out the richness of the dish. You can also serve the casserole alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion: A Timeless, Comforting Dish
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole is the perfect meal to bring comfort and satisfaction to any table. Its hearty ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options make it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With its rich flavors, creamy cheese sauce, and tender potatoes, it embodies everything we love about comfort food. So, gather your ingredients and give this timeless dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Final Thoughts
This recipe is more than just a casserole; it’s a reminder of the simple joys of home-cooked meals. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to leave everyone at the table satisfied, and the ease of preparation makes it a great choice for busy cooks. By tweaking the recipe to fit your preferences, you can make Ground Beef and Potato Casserole your own signature dish. So, whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite for years to come.